Effects of Aging and Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Vascular Endothelial Function and Metabolic Profiles in Transgender Men

Novel Evaluations of Aging and Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Vascular Endothelial Function and Metabolic Profiles in Transgender Men Compared to Age Group-Matched Transgender Women and Cisgender Adults

This study will examine markers of vascular endothelial function (vascular health) and metabolic profiles in older versus younger transgender men (people who were assigned female at birth but whose gender identity is male). Data will also be compared to those from age group-matched transgender women and cisgender women and men.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18-40 years old or 50-75 years old
• Identify as a transgender woman
• Have taken testosterone for at least one year
• Currently taking testosterone parenterally (injections) or transdermally (patches or gels)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Don't identify as a transgender man
• Not currently taking testosterone
• Have been on testosterone for less than one year
• History of hysterectomy/oophorectomy
• Current tobacco smoker
• Current illicit drug use
• History of prior or active estrogen-dependent neoplasms
• Acute liver or gallbladder disease
• Venous thromboembolism
• Hypertriglyceridemia >500 mg/dL
• Fasted plasma glucose >7.0 mmol/L or previously treated diabetes
• Resting blood pressure >140/90 mmHg